How to Avoid Getting Electrical Shock

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By madhavi26
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Article Rating: (12 Ratings)

Avoid Getting Electrical Shock

One of the widespread causes of accidents in the United States is electric shock. Although most shocks do not result directly in death by electrocution, they cause injuries. This article features some of the preventive measures you can take to protect yourself and your kids from getting an electric shock. Most new homes have GFCI (Ground Fault Current Interrupters) installed in them which trip the circuit when they detect a fault. Inspite of that human precautions are absolutely necessary to avoid electrical shocks in case these equipments fail.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Electrical Outlet Cover

The most common cause of a kid getting an electrical shock is uncovered electrical outlets. Please make sure that all low placed electrical outlets in your home are covered with electrical outlet covers. Your can get these at any local store or supermarket for $1 to $3.

http://www.google.com/products?hl=en&q=electrical+outlet+covers&scoring=p
Step 2

Make sure that none of the electrical wires in your house are bare (without insulation). If you come across an electrical wire that is bare, please ask a knowlegeable person if that is connected to a live circuit.
Step 3

When working with light fixtures, make sure that you are wearing rubber gloves and slippers at all times and standing on a dry wooden or fiberglass ladder.
Step 4

To be adequately sure that you would be safe while working with the Electrical circuit, turn off the mains to the area where you will be working.
Step 5

Any circuits with old wires should be properly inspected. Over a period of time the plastic or rubber covering hardens and tends to peel off. This may cause short-circuits.

Tips & Warnings

Do not attempt to work with Electrical circuits without proper guidance. If you are not sure how to work with a particular wiring or wiring diagram, it is best to call a professional.

Comments

benpauley said

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on 3/31/2009 Great article. Very helpful 5*

tundranut said

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on 3/25/2009 I will never forget when my 7 month old got shocked by sticking his finger into a socket. He's fine, but we were both completely freaked out. Thank you so much for an important article. 5* and a recommend.